Discover effective home remedies for dry eyes to soothe irritation, boost tear film health, and protect your vision with easy lifestyle tweaks.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kent Wellish.
Dry eye home remedies can make all the difference when your eyes feel gritty, red, or uncomfortably dry. Whether you stare at screens all day, battle seasonal allergies, or live in a low-humidity environment, finding simple, effective ways to soothe your eyes at home can help you stay comfortable and focused.
In this post, we’ll explore a range of accessible dry eye home remedies—from gentle eyelid cleansers to dietary tweaks and environmental adjustments—to support your tear film’s health and bring lasting relief. And remember, if your symptoms persist or worsen, always consult your eye doctor to rule out underlying conditions and get personalized treatment.
What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome can make everyday tasks—from typing at work to enjoying time with loved ones—uncomfortable and draining. Home remedies for dry eyes offer a first line of defense against pain, redness, and light sensitivity. This guide will explore 13 straightforward DIY dry eye solutions you can start today. If your symptoms persist or worsen, consult your eye doctor for personalized care.
Environmental Factors: Low humidity, wind, air conditioning, smoke, and allergens.
Lifestyle Factors: Prolonged screen time, reduced blinking, dehydration, and alcohol consumption.
13 Home Remedies for Dry Eyes
1. Wash Your Eyelids and Lashes
Gently cleanse your eyelids and lashes with warm water, a few drops of baby shampoo, or a preservative-free eyelid cleanser. This removes debris that can clog glands and destabilize your tear film. Finish with a warm compress to promote gland function.
2. Rest Your Eyes with the 20-20-20 Rule
Every 20 minutes, look at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This simple break reduces screen-induced strain and encourages full blinking, which helps maintain tear film integrity.
3. Blink Intentionally
Practice strong, complete blinks to cover your cornea fully. Try closing your eyes for two seconds, squeezing shut for two more, then opening. Repeat every 20 minutes to keep your eyes lubricated.
4. Add Omega-3 Fatty Acids to Your Diet
Omega-3s improve meibomian gland function and reduce inflammation. Eat salmon, tuna, flax seeds, chia seeds, walnuts, or take a fish-oil supplement daily.
5. Boost Key Vitamins
Ensure adequate intake of vitamins A, B12, D, E, C, B6, B9, riboflavin, niacin, lutein, and zeaxanthin. Incorporate leafy greens, citrus fruits, dairy, mushrooms, nuts, and orange-colored produce to support tear production and ocular health.
6. Limit Alcohol
Alcohol dehydrates your body and your eyes.
Cutting back on drinks can improve tear-film stability
and reduce dry-eye symptoms.
7. Quit Smoking
Cigarette smoke irritates the ocular surface and alters tear composition. Quitting—or staying out of smoky environments—can halve your risk of dry eye syndrome.
8. Stay Hydrated
Drink at least eight glasses of water daily to support tear production, flush debris, and maintain overall eye health.
9. Prioritize Sleep
Aim for 7–8 hours of sleep each night. Quality rest allows your eyes to replenish tears and recover from daily stressors.
10. Choose the Right Eye Drops
Use preservative-free artificial tears explicitly designed for dry eye syndrome. Avoid redness-relief drops, which can worsen irritation if overused.
11. Try Gels and Ointments at Night
Thicker than drops, lubricating gels and ointments offer longer relief while you sleep. Use sparingly to avoid interfering with meibomian gland function.
12. Adjust Your Environment
Use a cool-mist humidifier year-round.
Place a water tray near heaters in winter.
Upgrade HVAC filters and consider a HEPA air purifier.
Keep windows closed on windy or high-pollution days.
13. Wear Wraparound Sunglasses
Protect against wind, dust, and excessive light with wraparound or FL-41-filtered sunglasses. These reduce tear evaporation and ease photophobia.
Ready for Long-Lasting Dry Eye Relief?
These home remedies for dry eyes can bring quick comfort and support healthy tear film function. However, if symptoms persist, it’s time for professional care. Schedule a dry eye evaluation today to find the right treatment plan and restore your comfort and vision.
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